What is a Plant Controller Job?
A plant controller is a financial professional who works in a manufacturing plant and is responsible for managing the financial side of the plant's operations. This includes monitoring and analyzing the plant's financial performance, creating budgets and financial reports, and providing financial advice to the plant's management team. The plant controller job is a critical role in ensuring that the plant is profitable and financially stable.
What Usually Do in This Position?
A plant controller is responsible for a wide range of financial activities in a manufacturing plant. Some of the typical duties of a plant controller include creating and managing budgets, analyzing financial data, preparing financial reports, monitoring inventory levels, managing financial risks, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and standards. To be successful in this role, a plant controller must have a strong understanding of financial principles and be able to communicate financial information effectively to non-financial professionals.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Financial Analysis
- Budgeting and Forecasting
- Inventory Management
- Financial Reporting
- Communication Skills
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a plant controller, you typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree or a professional certification such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Relevant work experience in accounting or finance is also typically required. Plant controllers must be detail-oriented, analytical, and able to work well under pressure.
Average Salary
According to data from PayScale, the average salary for a plant controller is around $88,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, industry, and level of experience. Plant controllers with more experience and advanced certifications may earn higher salaries.
Roles and Types
Plant controller jobs can vary depending on the industry and size of the manufacturing plant. Some plant controllers may be responsible for managing the finances of multiple plants, while others may focus on a single plant. Some plant controllers may work in industries such as automotive, food and beverage, or pharmaceuticals. In addition to plant controllers, there are other financial professionals who work in manufacturing plants, such as cost accountants and financial analysts.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Plant controller jobs are available in manufacturing plants throughout the United States. Some of the top locations for plant controller jobs include Detroit, Michigan; Houston, Texas; and Chicago, Illinois. However, plant controller jobs can be found in many other locations as well, depending on the industry and size of the plant.
What are the Typical Tools?
Plant controllers typically use a variety of financial tools and software to manage the finances of a manufacturing plant. Some of the typical tools used by plant controllers include financial accounting software, budgeting and forecasting software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, and inventory management software. Plant controllers may also use spreadsheets and other financial analysis tools to create financial reports and analyze financial data.
In Conclusion
Plant controllers play a critical role in ensuring the financial stability and profitability of manufacturing plants. They must have a strong understanding of financial principles and be able to communicate financial information effectively to plant managers and other non-financial professionals. With the right education, experience, and skills, becoming a plant controller can be a rewarding career path for those interested in finance and manufacturing.